Architect's Office
LIMASSOL TOWN CENTRE
COMPLETED 2000
WORKSPACE
PHOTO CREDITS - VICTOR HADJIKYRIACOU
Founded in 1983, Vakis Associates began its journey in a repurposed merchant’s warehouse in the historic centre of town. The studio shared the space with Thesis, its sister company specializing in interior design and the curation of global furniture and artifacts. Together, they developed a collaborative environment where architecture and interiors worked in harmony to serve a shared clientele.
As the practice evolved, the need for a more dedicated and expansive workspace became apparent. Rather than relocate, the decision was made to build upwards—preserving the architectural and emotional connection to the original site. A new studio was constructed on the rooftop of the existing listed warehouse, forming a distinct yet complementary addition to the building.
The structural strategy was guided by the constraints of the old town setting—narrow streets, limited access, and the sensitivity of the existing fabric. A lightweight, modular system was employed, inspired by Meccano-like construction principles. Steel framing and composite materials were prefabricated off-site and assembled with minimal heavy machinery, reducing both the impact on the surrounding area and the load on the historic structure below.
The resulting extension is connected to the original warehouse by a simple bridge, maintaining continuity between the old and new workspaces. The linear volume features high ceilings and extensive floor-to-ceiling glazing that floods the interior with natural light. A slender balcony runs along the façade, offering outdoor access and city views, while reinforcing the studio’s dialogue with its surroundings.
Internally, the space is designed for flexibility and future growth. A mezzanine level serves as a gallery and meeting space, with concealed storage behind panelled walls. The structure is engineered to accommodate an extension of the mezzanine floor, allowing the studio to adapt over time without the need for major interventions.
This modest rooftop addition not only addresses practical needs but also reflects Vakis Associates’ design philosophy: thoughtful, context-sensitive architecture that respects the past while looking toward the future.
